Smoked Cheese Spread
by Sommer Collier — last updated on Apr 10, 2025 
This rich Smoked Cheese Spread made with cheddar, gouda cheese and sour cream is the most utterly addictive dip…and it’s the perfect savory spread to serve at parties!
The Ultimate Dip for Cheese Lovers
Nothing brings people together at a party like a spread of tantalizing party snacks, and this smoked gouda and cheddar cheese spread with sour cream is sure to be a massive hit with your guests!
Sommer’s Recipe Notes
This smoked cheese dip tastes amazing with all sorts of dippers, like crackers and veggies, but it also doubles as a spread! I love to add it onto sandwiches and wraps, and even flatbread because it’s just that delicious.
- Easy to Make – This recipe is ready in just 3 easy steps. Toss everything in a food processor, blend and voilà!
- Party Fave – This smoked cheese dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for any party.
- Food processor – You need a high-powered food processor or blender to get that creamy smooth texture. If your food processor has a low-power motor, shred the cheeses (by hand or with a food processor attachment) before pureeing.
Smoky, creamy, and impossible to resist, this dip is your new secret weapon for snack and party time success!
Ingredients Notes and Tips
- Smoked cheeses – Use a blend of smoked cheddar and smoked gouda cheese to create that perfectly savory and smoky flavor.
- Sour cream – I love to use a thick sour cream for this recipe because it brings just the right hint of tanginess and creamy texture.
- Granulated sugar – Just a small spoonful of sugar will balance the strong smoky flavor of the cheese and tanginess from the sour cream.
- Seasonings – Don’t skip out on the garlic powder and crushed red pepper! If you’re spice-sensitive, start with less and adjust to taste.
- Dippers – Grab some crackers, bread and sliced veggies like carrots, celery, bell peppers and cucumbers to pair with this smoked cheese dip.
Recipe Variations & Dietary Swaps
- Other hard cheeses – Replace gouda and cheddar cheese with firm-smoked mozzarella, Parmesan or provolone!
- Bacon – Stir in some cooked crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch.
- Herbs – Add in fresh chopped chives, parsley, or thyme for a herby twist.
- Low-fat – Substitute the sour cream with a low-fat alternative or with Greek yogurt for a lighter, less calorie-loaded version.
- Dairy-free – Use plant-based smoked cheeses and a dairy-free sour cream that’s cashew or coconut-based.
How To Make Smoked Cheese Spread
Not only is it super yummy, but our EASY no-cook homemade cheese dip is also a snap to make with a food processor in only 5 minutes!
Find the full Smoked Cheese Spread recipe with detailed instructions and storage tips in the printable form at the bottom of the post!
Storage Notes
- Storing Leftovers – Keep the dip covered in the refrigerator and enjoy within 1 week.
- Freezing Leftovers – You can freeze this smoked cheese dip for up to 6 months, but keep in mind that when thawed, the texture will be kind of different.
- Reheating Leftovers – This smoky cheese dip is best served at room temperature, but you can also reheat it in a saucepan over low heat.
What to Serve With Smoked Cheese Spread
Pair this smoky and creamy goodness with your favorite dippers! It is delicious with thin slices of crunchy bread, crackers, pretzels, or chips. Add some freshness to the party and serve with crunchy cut vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, celery, and/or pieces of bell pepper.
If feeding a crowd, serve this smoky homemade cheese dip alongside other appetizers like buffalo chicken bites, avocado deviled eggs, and dill dip!
The thick and creamy texture also makes for a delightful and versatile smoked cheese spread!
Add to sandwiches, wraps, or burgers for a bold bite of tangy flavor. It also is fantastic as a topper on homemade or delivery pizzas!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yep! Sugar isn’t essential, but it helps balance out the smokiness and tanginess.
I recommend using block cheese because pre-shredded cheese tends to make the dip grainy instead of creamy.
Yep! This recipe is gluten-free, just make sure that whatever dippers you’re serving this with are also gluten-free.
If the dip is too thick, add a little more sour cream or a splash of milk to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, pulse in some extra cheese until it thickens up.
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Ingredients
- 8 ounces smoked cheddar cheese
- 8 ounces smoked gouda cheese
- 1 ½ cups sour cream
- 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
Instructions
- Set out a large food processor. Cut the cheddar and gouda cheese blocks into chunks, then place in the food processor. Lock the lid into place and pulse to break the cheese chunks into fine crumbs.
- Add in the sour cream, 1 tablespoon of sugar, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Purée until the cheese dip is completely smooth. Taste, then add another tablespoon of sugar if desired.
- Scoop the smoked cheese dip into a bowl and serve with bread, crackers, or cut vegetables. Or refrigerate until ready to serve.
